As if the World Cup game between Australia and the United States wasn’t already heated enough, Australian fans found a new way to go beyond the game.
A video that spread across social media showed a group of supporters chanting against US President Donald Trump. Fans could be heard singing, “Aussie boys are on a bender, Donald Trump is a s*x offender” as excitement built before Friday’s Group D game. Earlier, World Cup stadium workers also wore pins opposing Donald Trump.
This brought more attention to a match that already carries high stakes. Both Australia and the United States know that a win will secure a place in the World Cup knockout stage.
Players Focus On Football Despite Growing Noise
While fans traded chants online and in the stands, players from both teams tried to keep attention on the match itself.
United States midfielder Sebastian Berhalter recalled the physical nature of last year’s friendly between the two nations in Colorado. He said US coach Mauricio Pochettino challenged his squad at halftime after Australia imposed itself physically.
Australian World Cup fans were caught chanting:
“Aussie boys are on a bender, Donald Trump is a sex offender.”
The tournament is barely underway and the chants are already in midseason form. 💀 pic.twitter.com/LiOx574K6m
— Brian Allen (@allenanalysis) June 17, 2026
“These guys can’t kick us around,” Pochettino told his players during that match, according to Berhalter.
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Berhalter expects another tough contest.
“We’re American, we don’t take s***,” he said. “It’s going to be a physical game, but a fun game, and we’re excited.”
At the same time, Berhalter made clear that the US squad respects Australia.
“They all seem like they’re always great guys,” he said. “Anytime you get to share a locker with an Australian it’s nothing but good things.”
Several American players also pushed back against comments from pundits who dismissed Australia’s chances.
US winger Tim Weah called the outside chatter “nonsense” and praised the Socceroos’ determination.
“When you look at the Australian team, they’re a young team that has a lot of fight, a lot of grit, and a lot of hunger, just like us,” Weah said.
Midfielder Tyler Adams shared a similar view.
“It’s not going to be a lay-up,” Adams said. “If anything, it’s going to be one of the most difficult games we play.”
The buildup has included fan chants, media criticism, and plenty of debate. Still, both teams know the result on the field will matter most when they meet in Seattle on Friday afternoon.
